Processor cards, CMOS, copper, and SOI technology

2.1.4 CMOS, copper, and SOI technology

The POWER5 processor design is a result of a close collaboration between IBM Systems and Technology Group and IBM Microelectronics technologies that enables IBM Sserver p5 systems to give customers improved performance, reduced power consumption, and decreased IT footprint size through logical partitioning. The POWER5 processor chip takes advantage of IBM leadership technology. It is made using IBM 0.13-µm-lithography CMOS. The POWER5 processor also uses copper and Silicon-on-Insulator (SOI) technology to allow a higher operating frequency for improved performance, yet with reduced power consumption and improved reliability compared to processors not using this technology.

2.2 Processor cards

In the p5-570 system, the POWER5 chip has been packaged with the L3 cache chip into a cost-effective Dual Chip Module (DCM) package. The storage structure for the POWER5 processor chip is a distributed memory architecture that provides high-memory bandwidth. Each processor can address all memory and sees a single shared memory resource. As such, a single DCM and its associated L3 cache and memory are packaged on a single processor card. Access to memory behind another processor is accomplished through the fabric buses. The p5-570 supports up to two processor cards (each card is a 2-way) in any building block. Each processor card has a single DCM containing a POWER5 processor chip and a 36 MB L3 module. I/O connects to the Central Electronic Complex (CEC) subsystem using the GX+ bus. Each DCM provides a single GX+ bus for a total system capability of two GX+ buses. The GX+ bus provides an interface to a single device such as the RIO-2 buses.

		DCM
core	core
shared L2 cache		L3
POWER5		cache
POWER5	memory
distributed switch	controller

SMI II

DIMM

Figure 2-4 p5-570 DCM diagram

Each processor card contains a single DCM, as well as the local memory storage subsystem for that DCM. The processor card also contains LEDs for each FRU2 on the CPU card including the CPU card itself. Figure 2-5shows a processor card layout view.

2field replacement unit

Chapter 2. Architecture and technical overview 23

P5 570 specifications

The IBM P5 570 is a high-performance server that was designed for enterprise-scale computing, offering a blend of advanced technologies and a flexible architecture. Launched as part of IBM's Power5 server line, the P5 570 stands out for its robust processing capabilities and extensive scalability, making it a preferred choice for businesses requiring reliable and efficient computing solutions.

At the heart of the P5 570 is the IBM Power5 processor, which employs simultaneous multi-threading (SMT) technology. This allows the processor to handle two threads per core, effectively doubling the throughput for workloads ideally suited to multi-threading. The server typically features a configuration of up to 32 Power5 processors, providing an impressive compute power that supports demanding applications, ranging from databases to complex enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.

The P5 570 architecture supports a wide range of memory configurations, with a maximum memory capacity of up to 512 GB. Utilizing IBM’s proprietary Chip Memory technology, it can deliver high bandwidth and low latency, significantly enhancing performance for memory-intensive applications. Furthermore, the integrated memory controller architecture optimizes memory access, ensuring that critical workloads run smoothly.

Scalability is a key characteristic of the P5 570, with the ability to expand processing power and memory capacity as an organization’s needs grow. The server supports various operating systems, including AIX, Linux, and IBM i, which provides flexibility for diverse IT environments. This versatility ensures that companies can run their preferred applications without the need for substantial system overhauls.

In terms of storage, the P5 570 utilizes advanced RAID technology and supports a variety of disk configurations, ensuring that data integrity and availability are maintained. Coupled with built-in security features, such as the IBM Trusted Foundation, which establishes a secure boot environment, the P5 570 offers a reliable platform for mission-critical workloads.

Finally, the IBM P5 570 is designed for high availability and redundancy. Features like hot-swappable components and advanced error detection and recovery mechanisms minimize downtime, making it a dependable choice for businesses that operate around the clock. Combined with its powerful hardware and versatile software support, the IBM P5 570 remains a formidable player in the high-performance server arena.